FC Barcelona extended their lead at the top of LaLiga EA Sports 2025/26 after a hard-fought 2–0 victory away to Espanyol. In a rain-soaked Catalan derby at the RCDE Stadium, the Blaugrana endured long spells of discomfort but showed their trademark quality and depth to prevail late on.
Espanyol’s intensity challenges a sluggish Barça start
Hansi Flick’s side lined up almost identically to their previous outing against Villarreal, with Raphinha operating centrally and Ferran Torres leading the line. However, without Pedri from the start, Barça struggled to dictate tempo and accuracy through midfield. Espanyol pressed aggressively and created early danger from set pieces.
Goalkeeper Joan García proved decisive once again, making key saves to deny Pere Milla and Roberto Fernández and keeping Barça level at halftime. Lamine Yamal was the liveliest attacking outlet, constantly threatening on the right, but lacked the final touch to break through.
Flick’s substitutions turn the tide
After the interval, Flick brought on Fermín López for Marcus Rashford, seeking more verticality and rhythm in attack. Still, Espanyol continued to threaten on the break, forcing Joan García into more decisive stops.
Sensing the need for greater creativity, Flick made a triple substitution on 64 minutes: Pedri, Dani Olmo and Lewandowski entered, changing the dynamic completely. Pedri’s control, Fermín’s energy, and Olmo’s movement gave Barça new life as the minutes ticked away.
Olmo and Lewandowski seal the derby
When the match seemed destined for a draw, Barça’s patience paid off. In the 86th minute, a dazzling run from Fermín López ended with a clever assist for Dani Olmo, who curled a perfect shot into the top corner. Just three minutes later, another decisive play from Fermín allowed Robert Lewandowski to make it 0–2, securing a vital derby victory.
Barça’s superior depth and composure ultimately made the difference. Espanyol fought with intensity and organization, but Flick’s side found solutions through individual brilliance and a timely tactical reshuffle.
Joan García, the quiet MVP of Cornellà
While Olmo and Lewandowski scored the goals, Joan García stood out as Barça’s true hero. The young goalkeeper recorded six saves and showed outstanding reflexes under pressure, keeping Espanyol at bay when the hosts were on top. His consistency continues to make him one of the revelations of the season.
Bottom line
Barcelona delivered another statement win to strengthen their leadership in LaLiga. With 49 points and a seven-point cushion over Real Madrid, Flick’s men combined resilience, tactical adaptability, and star quality to win a derby that demanded both patience and precision.
Discover more from Barça Buzz
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
